American Business Merit Badge

Introduction

The American Business Merit Badge is designed to teach scouts about the world of business and how it operates. Scouts will learn about the different types of businesses, how to start a business, and the importance of ethics in business.

Merit Badge Requirements

Explain four features of the free enterprise system in the United States.
Explain the Industrial Revolution and how it changed the way goods were produced in the United States.
Explain the difference between a business and a nonprofit organization. Describe two examples of each.
Do ONE of the following:

Visit a business or organization. Describe how it is organized and managed.
Start a business or organization of your own. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of starting your own business.

Explain the importance of ethics in business. Give an example of a business that has been affected by unethical behavior.
Discuss with your counselor the opportunities and requirements for pursuing a career in business. Choose one career in which you are interested and discuss with your counselor the major responsibilities of that position and the qualifications, education, and experience needed to obtain that position.

Lesson

Hey there, scouts! Are you ready to learn about the exciting world of business? Let's get started!

First, let's talk about the free enterprise system. Can anyone tell me what that is? That's right, it's the economic system we have in the United States where businesses are free to compete with each other and consumers have the power to choose what they want to buy.

Now, let's talk about the Industrial Revolution. This was a time in history when machines were invented that made it easier and faster to produce goods. Can anyone give me an example of a machine that was invented during the Industrial Revolution? Great job, the cotton gin!

Next, let's talk about the difference between a business and a nonprofit organization. A business is a company that sells goods or services to make a profit, while a nonprofit organization is a group that works to help others without making a profit. Can anyone give me an example of a nonprofit organization? That's right, the Red Cross!

Now, let's move on to the fun part - starting your own business! Can you imagine being your own boss and making all the decisions? It's a lot of work, but it can be very rewarding. Can anyone think of a business they would like to start? Great ideas!

But wait, before you start your own business, you need to know about ethics. Ethics are the moral principles that guide our behavior. It's important to be ethical in business so that you don't harm others or damage your reputation. Can anyone give me an example of a business that has been affected by unethical behavior? That's right, Enron!

Finally, let's talk about careers in business. There are so many different careers to choose from - marketing, finance, human resources, and more! Can anyone think of a career they are interested in? Awesome, let's talk about what it takes to get there.

Questions

What are the four features of the free enterprise system?
What was the Industrial Revolution and how did it change the way goods were produced?
What is the difference between a business and a nonprofit organization?
Can you describe how a business is organized and managed?
What are some advantages and disadvantages of starting your own business?
Why is it important to be ethical in business?
What career in business are you interested in and what does it take to get there?

Remember, scouts, if you have any questions or need help completing this merit badge, don't hesitate to reach out to your merit badge counselor. Good luck!

Schedule

Week	Task
1	Read about the free enterprise system and the Industrial Revolution.
2	Research and describe two examples of businesses and nonprofit organizations.
3	Visit a business or organization OR start your own business.
4	Research and discuss the importance of ethics in business.
5	Research and discuss a career in business that interests you.